When the Plant City Dolphins need Reagan Korlacki to make a play, they can trust the little man to get things done. Korlacki, who plays for the 10U Midgets team, most recently played both offense and defense in all four UYFL championship tournament games and scored four touchdowns in as many games while at running back — including the lone score in the Dolphins’ 7-0 win over Silk City Elite in the second round. Head coach Robbie Jordan calls him a “phenomenal leader, great teammate and has the heart of a lion.”
Know someone who deserves an Athlete of the Week feature? Email Justin Kline at jkline@plantcityobserver.com by the Friday before the next issue.
You just wrapped up a busy season and won your division in UYFL. How did it feel to get that ring?
Good.
That last game was pretty crazy. You all were down 19-7 going into the fourth quarter, recovered two onside kicks, kept possession the rest of the game and came back to win. What did you guys tell yourselves to get motivated?
Stay focused and don’t let up.
What was the most important play of that game?
Punching out those five and six-yard gains, getting first downs.
You’ve been with the team for several years now and have been in plenty of big games. Do you get nervous anymore?
It just feels like another game.
How do you get ready for a game?
I listen to rock music and I eat a good breakfast before I go.
What’s the best pre-game breakfast?
Eggs, omelet or oatmeal.
What’s the coolest thing you’re done in a football game?
The biggest game we won, the YFL championship. This past one.
How does it feel when you stand up on the podium and get your trophy after getting through so many games in one week?
Relief.
What are you most excited about for when you move up to the JV team next year?
One of my favorite coaches is staying. Coach (John) Broome.
What’s your favorite thing about being a part of this team?
Being with all of my teammates, surrounded by good people.
What’s the most fun you’ve had with these guys?
Winning.
Which other positions do you play, besides running back?
Linebacker, d-line and quarterback.
Which is your favorite?
Running back because you get to have the ball, block for the quarterback and it’s almost the most important thing on the field.
When did you start playing football?
I started when I was 4 years old and I watched it a few times, and my dad would play with me outside.
What made you want to keep playing?
Hitting.
Like trucking people as a running back or hitting them as a linebacker?
Both.
Do you play any other sports?
Basketball, I played baseball and I’m gonna do track.
What’s your favorite subject in school?
Science.
Which football players do you look up to?
Barry Sanders.